The first few episodes of season 2 are kind of bad. For some reason instead of continuing with all the strides made in season one, the producers decided to reset some character development for some supposedly big and special guest star funny episodes. It didn't really work. The last 3 of the season are far better!

Good to know. I'm watching via SyFy. I find it amusing how quickly the writers had Merlin go from 'I'll never let you leave your cage' to 'I promise to set you free' when it comes to the dragon.